NOTE :WEDNESDAY 9/2 10 AM LAKEHOUSE FREE PHARMACIST REVIEW……….Just bring your list

If you take multiple prescription medications, OTC medicines, vitamins or supplements, a medication review can help prevent dangerous interactions, duplicate ingredients and dosing mistakes.

1. Choose One “Go-To” Pharmacist

If you use more than one pharmacy, mail-order service or online pharmacy, make sure one pharmacist has a complete list of everything you take. This makes it easier to identify drug interactions, duplicate medications and potential problems.

2. Check Before Adding Any OTC Medicine

Never assume an over-the-counter medication, vitamin or supplement is safe simply because it doesn’t require a prescription. Ask your pharmacist before starting anything new. Bring your complete medication list to every medical appointment.

3. Take Medications Exactly as Directed

Do not change the dose, split tablets, skip doses or take medication differently to save money unless your doctor or pharmacist says it is safe.

If cost is an issue, ask: “Is there a higher-strength tablet that is safe to split and would cost the same?” Not every pill can be safely split.

4. Know What to Do If You Have Side Effects

Take medication as prescribed unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you otherwise. If you develop serious, unexpected, or concerning side effects, contact your prescribing physician or pharmacist promptly. For severe or life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical care.

5. Check Expiration Dates & Dispose of Medications Safely

At least once a year, review expiration dates on prescriptions, OTC medications and supplements. Remove expired or unneeded medications from your home.

Use an authorized drug take-back location or medication disposal program whenever possible. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless the FDA specifically recommends it. Do not simply throw loose medications into the trash. Police and Neighborhood Watch will take and dispose of them properly

6. NEVER Share Prescription Medications

A medication prescribed for you may be dangerous—even life-threatening—for someone else, even if they have similar symptoms or the same diagnosis.

7. Consider a Small “Trial” Supply

When starting a new medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether a short initial supply is appropriate before purchasing a 90-day supply. This can help you determine whether you tolerate the medication and whether it is working as intended.

8. Keep an Updated Medication List

Keep a current list of every prescription, OTC medication, vitamin and supplement, including the dose and how often you take it. Bring it to medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency visits.

9. Ask One Simple Question

Whenever a new medication is prescribed, ask:

“What should I know about this medication—and does it interact with anything else I take?”

When you take multiple medications, your pharmacist can be one of your best safety resources.